Summer Motorcycle Riding Tips
It's tough to beat the thrill of summer motorcycle riding. The weather is fantastic, the cities are bursting with activities, and the open road is almost begging you to ride. But there are unique hazards to warm weather riding, so you'll want to be proactive to ensure a safe and successful trip. We've gathered up the following summer motorcycle riding tips. If you want more strategies or want to explore motorcycles for sale, visit Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson. Our dealership is located in Eugene, Oregon. We also proudly serve those in Albany and Corvallis, Oregon.
1. Adjust Your Riding Time
If you have flexibility about the timing of your motorcycle ride, take advantage of it. Summer motorcycle riding is best in the early morning or early evening when the weather is cooler. The hottest parts of the day tend to be from 3 to 5 PM, so try to avoid being on the road during that time span. If you are embarking on a long-distance route, aim to be in an air-conditioned restaurant or building when the temperatures peak.
2. Stay Hydrated
It's easier to get dehydrated when temperatures soar. Dehydration is not only uncomfortable to feel, it can pose a safety issue. It reduces your ability to focus, which increases your chance of an accident.
Start drinking lots of water long before your trip. Then make sure to drink plenty of water during your ride. You can bring large water bottles or use a hands-free hydration pack. Don't forget to replenish electrolytes as well (these get lost as you sweat). All you need to do is munch on salty snacks or guzzle a sports drink.
3. Wear The Right Gear
Sure, it's tempting on a hot summer's day to throw on shorts and a tank top. But it's important to still wear full-length outerwear on your motorcycle ride. The fabric helps add some protection from the sun and shields your skin in the event of a crash. You want to wear durable riding clothes, but you don't have to suffer on a hot day.
Look for clothing that offers the protection you need without causing you to overheat. Choose light-colored fabrics over darker colored fabrics. The dark colors look great on the road, but they tend to absorb heat more. You can also seek out riding clothes that are made from breathable fabrics and offer ventilation and sweat-wicking features.
4. Take Plenty Of Breaks
Riding a motorcycle is a physically-engaging activity. It becomes even more exhausting on a hot day! As temperatures rise, you'll get tired more quickly. Take more breaks on a hot day than you usually do. Try to find somewhere with air-conditioning (or at least shade). When you stop, drink plenty of water and give your body and brain a rest.
5. Know The Signs Of Health Issues
Hot weather can pose health issues. It's important to know the warning signs so you can take care of your body before the situation gets worse.
Some hot weather health issues are more mild, such as a painful sunburn. Others can be more severe, such as headaches, dizziness, or even losing consciousness. Pay attention to how you feel during your ride and listen to your body. If you start to feel odd, take a break and recharge. It'll help you stay healthy and enjoy your ride better than if you pushed through symptoms and made yourself sicker.
We hope you found these summer motorcycle riding tips helpful! For more riding advice or to shop motorcycles for sale, head over to Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson. Our friendly staff is happy to assist you with whatever you need, from answering questions to recommending models. You'll find us in Eugene, Oregon, and we also serve those in Albany and Corvallis.